N-Acetyl Glucosamine (NAG)

* A glucose derivative used in skin repair
* Please read TIA’s article on What Is It: Glucosamine and Hyperpigmentation

N-Acetyl Glucosamine (NAG) is a monosaccharide derivative of glucose, chemically created by combining glucosamine and acetic acid. Glucosamine, one of the building blocks of joint tissue and other connective tissues, is an amino sugar derived from shellfish and used in the treatment of arthritis and other joint conditions (Wikipedia).

N-Acetyl Glucosamine (NAG) is a monosaccharide derivative of glucose, chemically created by combining glucosamine and acetic acid. Glucosamine, one of the building blocks of joint tissue and other connective tissues, is an amino sugar derived from shellfish and used in the treatment of arthritis and other joint conditions (Wikipedia).

It is used two-fold in skin care products as a treatment and aide for wound-healing before and after surgery, as well as a treatment for UV-damaged skin and hyperpigmentation. According to research, studies on the effectiveness of glucosamine and N-Acetyl Glucosamine (NAG) showed that patients who used them before undergoing surgery and continued until their incisions healed showed faster rates of healing compared to patients who did not take it. Glucosamine skin cream products provide support for healthy joint, cartilage, connective tissues and flexibility, useful in damaged tissue surrounding wounds. The nutrients are encapsulated into liposomes for concentrated delivery to the required area.

In 2006, the International Consensus on Glucosamine Skin Benefits was held with leading scientists in conjunction with Proctor and Gamble Beauty. The panel determined that N-Acetyl Glucosamine (NAG), a more stable form of glucosamine, reduced the amount of melanin in skin cells, meaning there was less excess pigment in the skin to cause age spots. Additionally, the panel concluded that a formulation of N-Acetyl Glucosamine (NAG) and niacinamide, a Vitamin B derivative, significantly reduced the amount and appearance of hyperpigmentation, age spots and uneven melanin distribution, because they knew that niacinamide had similar effects on slowing down pigment production and hypothesized that the two might work better together.

According to studies, "Chronic UV exposure can damage melanocytes, cells in the skin responsible for producing melanin, in a variety of different ways. Often, this damage can lead to a loss of cellular control, and the production of chemicals that allow the cells to keep producing more and more melanin."

N-Acetyl Glucosamine (NAG) is also being used to reduce the wrinkles and help the skin to stay more resilient.

Safety Measures/Side Effects:

There are no adverse reactions to products containing N-Acetyl Glucosamine (NAG) and no adverse reactions have been found. Since glucosamine is usually derived from shellfish, those allergic to shellfish may wish to avoid it. However, since glucosamine is derived from the shells of these animals while the allergen is within the flesh of the animals, it is probably safe even for those with shellfish allergy.